Kevin Mitchell and Ricky Burns Clash in Sparring

Kevin Mitchell and Ricky Burns have enjoyed their first few days of sparring ahead of big fights in July.
 
Mitchell meets John Murray for the WBO Intercontinental lightweight title on July 9 at London's ExCeL Arena.
 
And just a week later Burns tackles Nicky Cook at the Liverpool Echo Arena.
 
They've been getting in shape with some quality rounds at the TKO gym in London.
 
Ironically, the pair were due to meet for the British super-featherweight title a few years ago. 

That fight never happened - but judging by this week, it would have been ferocious.
 
"Sparring has been fantastic," said Mitchell.
 
"Ricky's a quality world champion and he's been very, very sharp.
 
"It's hard to believe that his fight is more than six weeks ago because he looks ready to go right now.
 
"It's great for me because I've been out of action since my fight against Michael Katsidis, but sparring with Ricky is just like having proper rounds."
 
Burns added: "I'm really looking forward to Murray and Mitchell, and it's hard to pick a winner right now.
 
"Kevin impressed me over the last few days, and you would not have known he hasn't fought for a year.
 
"He's quick and he hits hard, and I can tell that he has got his hunger back.
 
"Neither of us were holding back in there, and if anyone thinks Mitchell has been badly affcted by the loss to Katsidis, they sould think again.
 
"It's one of the toughest spars I've had, and I've moved around with the likes of Scott Harrison and Alex Arthur."